February 2026
Volume 25 • Issue 2
Providing life-changing scholarships to families of America s fallen or disabled military and first responders. ’
A Dozen Ways to Say “I Love You”
We bake the perfect way for you to say “I love you!” – From Valentine’s Day gifts to family gatherings, we bake scrumptious cookies that are sure to make every day sweeter!
Our bakery case is filled with over 20 flavors of cookies baked fresh every day, including seasonal flavors! We make our cookies by hand using quality ingredients and lots of love! Whether you need to satisfy your own sweet cravings or need catering for an event, we bake it easy for you! We also serve brownies, gluten-friendly cookies, ice cream treats, and more!
Call or order online today!
FEB RU ARY 2026
Sioux Falls’ Favorite Women’s Magazine
email: etc.mag@sio.midco.net www.etcsiouxfalls.com www.facebook.com/etcforher
calendar 7
February 2026
concierge 14
Washington Pavilion
Launches New Exhibit That’s Out of This World
history 18
Thomas Henderson Brown and the Rock Island Line
out & about
February 2026
Mrs. Doubtfire
Sunday, February 1
2:00 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Sioux Falls in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, familyfriendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter).
Arn Kind Presents:
Soldiers of the American Revolution at the Old Courthouse Museum
Tuesday, February 3
6:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West 6th Street
The American Revolution was America’s first civil war. It would split the country between Loyalists (those who wanted to stay loyal to the king) and Patriots (those who wanted to separate from
Great Britain to become an independent nation). How could we, as a people, go from being proud members of the British empire -the greatest in the world- to wanting our independence in the span of just ten years? Through drama, roleplaying and living history experiences, Mr. Kind’s multimedia presentation will give participants an understanding of this turbulent time and
make history come alive. Admission is free! (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Green Bay Gamblers
Thursday, February 5 7:05pm Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country.
Don’t Miss SPRING
at the Pointe!
Lessons for all ages and ability levels! Morning and evening classes available. Junior Tennis Spring Session runs March 16-May 19
For more information, log on to www.playthepointe.com
Contact: Mark Vellek, Executive Director mark@playthepointe.com
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Maine Celtics
Friday, February 6
7:00 p.m.
The Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is a member of the NBA G League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
Eric Church: Free the Machine Tour
Friday, February 6
7:30 p.m.
Eric Church brings his Free The Machine tour to the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center on February 6, 2026 with special guest Ella Langley.
Highway 18 at the Old Courthouse Museum
Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 6 Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street Highway 18 will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
The Black Market
Saturday, February 7: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Sunday, February 8: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
The Black Market is formerly Benson’s Flea Market and features everything you can imagine, big and little, old and new, heavy and light! As the longest-running indoor variety market in South Dakota we offer a nostalgic experience sure to bring back memories from childhood, stimulate excitement and provide hours of shopping entertainment.
Sioux Falls Stampede Saturday, February 7 6:05 p.m.
Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country.
South Dakota Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven & Brahms Saturday, February 7 7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Composer Robert Carl joins the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra for his world premiere, “Wind Hymn”, Bookended by the greats, Beethoven and Brahms.
Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum
Sunday, February 8
1:00-4:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Do you like to knit, crochet,
needlework, or dabble in any other fiber arts?
Come join members from the Crossthreads Fiber Guild for an afternoon of Fiber Fun! Attendees can work on projects, ask for suggestions, and just enjoy the company of fellow fiber friends. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Ice Fishing with the Littles
Wednesday, February 11 10:00 a.m.
Outdoor Campus
Fishing time is family time, even on the ice!! This shortened fishing class is perfect for parents, grandparents and baby sitters with younger kids with shorter attention spans. We’ll keep it basic and fun for everyone! Be sure to dress for the weather! Age: recommended 3 to 5, with adult.
Awards® — including Best Musical!
Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory! A world where bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge!
Dueling Duo’s
Valentine’s Bash
Friday, February 13
8:00 p.m.
The District
Hope Haven Presents Dueling Duo’s Valentine’s Bash live at The District.
Doors Open at 7:00 p.m. Show Starts at 8:00 p.m.
Dakota Wind Quintet at the Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 13 Noon to 1:00 p.m.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
February 11 • 7:30pm February 12 • 7:30pm February 13 • 7:30pm February 14 • 2pm & 7:30pm February 15 • 2pm & 7:30pm Pop the champagne, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is the winner of 10 Tony
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street Dakota Wind Quintet will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Billy Gardel: The Less is More Tour
Friday, February 1
7:00 p.m.
Orpheum Theater
Billy Gardell currently stars in the CBS series
Bob Hearts Abishola, from award-winning creator, executive producer and writer Chuck Lorre. Bob Hearts Abishola is a love story about a middleaged compression sock businessman from Detroit who unexpectedly falls for his cardiac nurse, a Nigerian immigrant, while recovering from a heart
attack and sets his sights on winning her over.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Des Moines Buccaneers
Saturday, February 14
6:05 p.m.
Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country.
Winter Farmers Market
Saturday, February 15
9:00 a.m.
Mosaic Arts & Events
The beloved Falls Parker Farmers Market is extending its season and moving indoors to Mosaic Arts & Events during the colder months. Shop from a variety of vendors for produce, flowers, baked
goods, custom art, and so much more.
Rosemaling
Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum
Tuesday, February 17
1:00-4:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Eileen Halverson will be demonstrating the Norwegian folk art of Rosemaling (decorative painting) in the secondfloor hallway of the Old Courthouse Museum from 1-4 p.m. Stop in any time for a demonstration or to ask questions!
INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Monday, February 17 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Discover the night sky, explore the constellations! Starlab is a program for adults and children over the age of 5. Not recommended for those not comfortable in the dark. Tickets only $2, program begins promptly on the hour with no late entry. Groups of 8 or more, please call ahead. INFO (605) 367-4210 or www. siouxlandmuseums.com.
Mania: The ABBA Tribute
Wednesday, February 18 7:30 p.m.
Orpheum Theater Mania the ABBA Tribute has successfully toured every continent in the
world and has played over 3,000 live concerts in over 35 countries. Mania continues in its quest to bring the music of the Swedish ’Supergroup’ to millions of fans, old and new!
Victorian Tea Party at the Pettigrew Home & Museum
Wednesday, February 18
2:00 p.m.
Pettigrew Home & Museum 131 N. Duluth Avenue
Enjoy a tea in true Victorian fashion at the historic Pettigrew Home & Museum. Learn about the history of tea while enjoying tea and snacks. Space is limited for this adult program. Call (605) 367-7097 to
register. Free Admission, donations welcome. INFO siouxlandmuseums.com
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center
Thursday, February 19
2:00 p.m.
Irene Hall Museum Resource Center 4300 N. Westport Avenue
Take a look behind the closed doors of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center and see the artifact storage and work areas. Space is limited, call (605) 367-
4210 to register, $5. siouxlandmuseums.com
The Good Night Theatre Collective Presents Parents’ Weekend
February 19 • 7:30 p.m. February 20 • 7:30 p.m. February 21 • 7:30 p.m. Washington Pavilion In February 2026, we’ll be world-premiering a brand-new musical comedy you won’t soon forget. Featuring the work of local playwright and performer Coleman Peterson, this brand-new musical follows the shenanigans that ensue when old college pals reunite to relive their glory days… at their kids’ freshman year of college.
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Valley Suns
Dr Chris Wermerson DMD, MS
219 N. Main St.• Salem, SD 57058 605-421-4442 treasuredhomeandvintage@gmail.com
February 20 • 7:00 p.m.
The Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is a member of the NBA
together one Saturday a month from November through March.
G League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
Marty DeWitt at the Old Courthouse Museum
Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 20
Noon to 1:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Marty DeWitt will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Wild About Science: Mammals
Saturday, February 21 11:00 a.m.
Washington Pavilion
This winter, let curiosity run wild! In collaboration with the Great Plains Zoo and Butterfly House & Aquarium, our Wild About Science series brings live animals and family fun
Sioux Empire on Tap Saturday, February 21 Noon - 8:00 p.m.
Sioux Falls Convention Center Sioux Empire on Tap returns, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Join us for an unforgettable day of craft beverage sampling, live music, and good vibes. Discover a variety of brews from local favorites to national brands.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Omaha Lancers
February 21 • 7:05pm Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country.
A Heart Pumping Evening with Reed Timmer
Saturday, Feb. 21 • 7:30 p.m.
Orpheum Theater “Dominate the Storm: A
Heart-Pumping Evening
with Reed Timmer” is an electrifying live speaking tour by Dr. Reed Timmer, America’s most renowned extreme meteorologist and storm chaser, featuring his Ph.D.-backed adventures intercepting over 1,000 tornadoes and 50+hurricanes (including EF5 and Category 5 monsters) using his custominvented armored Dominator vehicles. Audiences experience heart-racing storm footage, firsthand survival tales and innovative data collection stories from inside these beasts, embodying Timmer’s motto: “NEVER stop chasing.”
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Valley Suns
Sunday, February 22
3:00 p.m.
The Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is a member of the NBA G League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Fargo Force
Sunday, February 22
4:05 p.m.
Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country.
BINGO at the American Legion Auxiliary Tuesday, February 24
5-6 p.m. Social, 6-6:30 meal, BINGO 6:45pm
1600 W. Russell St.
Please register for mealcall Jane at (605) 682-1222
Ceili Dance at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, February 26
6:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Ceili (pronounced KAYlee) is an Irish social dance. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, Ceili dancing is a fun and energetic way to spend an evening. Get ready to dance to live music at the Old Courthouse Museum! Beginners welcome. Free admission. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Robin Hood
February 27, 28 & March 1, 6, 7, 8
Historic Luverne Palace Theatre
Get tickets at palacetheatre.us or call (507) 283-4339.
Doc Walker Trio at the Old Courthouse Museum
Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 28
Noon to 1:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
The Doc Walker Trio will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
WASHINGTON PAVILION LAUNCHES NEW EXHIBIT THAT’S
Out of This World
BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY WASHINGTON PAVILION
“The sight of the stars always makes me dream.”
For centuries, people both real and fictional have marveled at the mysteries of space.
Artist Vincent van Gogh said, “The sight of the stars always makes me dream.” Star Trek fans heard each episode start with, “Space, the final frontier.” And young space fans would be thrilled to go with Buzz Lightyear “to infinity and beyond!”
Thanks to the Washington Pavilion, anyone can now be a space explorer. Their new exhibit, Space Explorers: Mission
Infinity – which spans the entire second floor of the Kirby Science Discovery Center – invites guests to embark on STEM-based “missions” – meaning that they’re based in Science Technology Engineering and Math.
You can build and launch a rocket, scan deep space, step onto Mars (and even play basketball there) and discover what it really takes to live in the vast universe beyond planet Earth.
“This transformation reflects our mission to provide world-class experiences that
inspire future innovators and leaders,” says Darrin Smith, President and CEO for Washington Pavilion Management Inc.
“We are so proud to offer this one-of-a-kind immersive experience for our community and region.”
The exciting part about the new Space Explorers exhibit is that you don’t even need to be a fan of math or science to enjoy it.
By working with Formula D, an internationally acclaimed experience design firm, the Washington Pavilion created a etc.
fantastic world of immersive play that blends smart technology, storytelling and science into hands-on activities to ignite curiosity.
When you start your space exploration, you can travel through five different zones:
1. Into the Unknown – Step into the exhibit through a dynamic “spacewalk” entry and begin your interstellar adventure.
2. We Have Lift Off – Launch rockets and explore the science behind space travel and engineering.
3. Mission to Planet Earth – See Earth from above and study our home planet’s fragile beauty from space.
4. Living on the Red Planet – Step inside a Mars habitat and discover how future astronauts might survive and thrive.
5. Where No One Has Gone Before – Use high-powered telescopes to scan deep space, explore black holes and imagine life on alien worlds.
Christa McAuliffe, the high school teacher chosen to be the first “regular” person to go to space, once said, “Space is for everybody. It’s not just for a few people in science or math, or for a select group of astronauts.”
Through Space Explorers: Mission Infinity, the Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion is making McAuliffe’s dream come true.
The exhibit was made possible by lead sponsors Dakota State University and MarketBeat, along with support from several community partners.
Hours: Hours can be subject to change. You can get the most up-to-date information by calling Guest Services at 605-367-6000. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 12 – 5 p.m.
Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion 301 South
THOMAS HENDERSON BROWN and the Rock Island Line
By Wayne Fanebust
In1872, Thomas Henderson Brown and his spouse Mary decided to settle in Sioux Falls, Dakota Territory. Although it was an isolated and struggling community, Brown, as did a hand full of others, saw the village as a place of promise. He spent the rest of his long life working toward making that promise a reality, and at the same time, accumulating a fair amount of wealth and prestige. Among
his major accomplishments was the Brown apartments at 12th Street and Phillips Avenue, and railroad promotion including the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railroad, that was eventually renamed the Rock Island Line.
Brown was born in Portabello, Durham County, England in 1837. His family immigrated to the United States in 1848,
settling in Wisconsin. When he reached adulthood, he engaged in farming and mining. When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Brown enlisted in the Union Army, serving in the Third Wisconsin Infantry Regiment. As it turned out, volunteer Brown became a member of a very elite unit, having fought in the terrible battles of Chancellorsville and Antietam, both of which resulted in massive casualties.
The Third Wisconsin also played a bloody role in the three-day Battle of Gettysburg that was credited with turning the tide of the war in favor of the Union. Other honors included marching with Major General William T. Sherman on his famous “March to the Sea,” a destructive campaign that brought the Confederacy to its knees. All in all, Brown and his colleagues participated in over 30 battles and skirmishes, yet he survived the madness with his mind and body intact and ready to take on new challenges.
After the Civil War ended, John H. Brown went west to Montana where he engaged in mining. He then retreated to the east, settling in Broadhead, Wisconsin, for a stint in the
hardware business. There he met and married Mary Morse, a relationship that would last a lifetime. He and Mary packed up and went west again, arriving in Sioux Falls in 1872. It would be their last stop on a restless journey, for they took up residence in Sioux Falls’ first frame dwelling house, located at the intersection of 12th Street and Phillips Avenue, an address that has been associated with the Browns to the present day.
John Henderson Brown lacked the color and slapdash of men like R. F. Pettigrew, Nye Phillips and Mel Grigsby, but he proved to be a successful frontier businessman and speculator in his own right, while earning the respect of his more splashy peers. While
working in the hardware and lumber business, he took time to engage in social affairs by organizing the first Masonic Temple in Dakota Territory and served as its Master for three years. He was also involved in educational matters and served on the school board as president. His wife was also active in local affairs, including the Eastern Star and the Women’s Relief Corps.
While his crowning business achievement was the founding of Brown and Saenger in 1889, a company that became the largest bookbinding and printing establishment in South Dakota, he will undoubtedly be remembered the most for railroad promotion and building.
Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Passenger Depot.
ROCK ISLAND DEPOT
The depot and bridge located to the east were constructed by the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railroad Co. (the Rock Island Line). This was the third railroad line in Sioux Falls and was established on October 26, 1886. The architectural style of the depot is known as Richardson Romanesque. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sioux Falls citizen Thomas H. Brown was instrumental in bringing the Rock Island Line to the community. Funded by The State Preservation Office by The National Park Service. Marker location: 9th Street & 1st Avenue, Sioux Falls. Photo © 2026 Google
Sioux Falls was proud of its two railroads but would welcome another. Railroads were the life blood of frontier communities. Promising towns that failed to attract trains were often doomed to disappear. Because of the waterpower of the falls of the Big Sioux River, Sioux Falls had no need to worry, attracting two railroads, and in 1885, the eager promoters were looking for more. Their sights were set on Iowa, a state where railroads roamed all over the state.
The Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern had laid ties and tracks from the extreme eastern border of Iowa to Little Rock. But that line was looking to move further west when a group of Sioux Falls promoters and investors came up with enough funds to convince the Burlington men to build the railroad to Sioux Falls by way of Rock Rapids, Iowa. A resolution to put up $60,000.00 was put to a vote by the people and it overwhelmingly passed.
The new line reached Sioux Falls on October 26, 1886. The achievement was crowned by the driving of the last spike and the ringing of church bells. The celebration was followed by the building of a depot, made of local quartzite stone, in the elegant Richardson Romanesque style. Although the new railroad was widely supported, it was generally believed that the driving force behind Sioux Falls’ third railroad was none other than Thomas Henderson Brown. A
THOMAS H. BROWN MEMORIAL
1852-1922 • Seventieth Anniversary
The memorial tree planted nearby is dedicated by the Rock Island in affectionate memory of Thomas H. Brown who by his industry, courage and loyalty through every vicissitude signally aided in the development of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway into a great transportation system devoted to the public service. Marker location: 10th Street & 2nd Avenue, Fort Sod Park, Sioux Falls
small plaque was placed on the intersection of 9th Street and First Avenue to honor his contributions to the Burlington line.
Another important feature of this railroad was the building of a bridge in 1888, across the Big Sioux River. Built in the closing days of Dakota Territory, it is of lattice-throughtruss construction and has the distinction of being the oldest railroad bridge in the state of South Dakota. The historic bridge can be seen in Sioux Falls’ Riverdale Park, bearing the
inscription: “1888.”
Interestingly, in 1888, when the bridge was completed, Sioux Falls was still a horse and buggy town. But in 1900, the first automobile to grace the city streets was unloaded at the Burlington depot. Its owner cranked it up and drove it over the city streets, treating curious onlookers to a bewildering sight. It was like saying: behold for I am the future.
Also by 1900, a new company owned the
line and it was thereafter referred to as Rock Island Railroad. John Henderson Brown kept his quiet, steady hand on the throttle of further development in Sioux Falls until his death in 1922. To remember him always, his friends and neighbors planted a memorial tree next to the Rock Island depot to honor his “industry, courage and loyalty,” qualities that would forever define a man whose personal success was matched by his dedication to his city and its people.
recipes 23
Chocolate Cream Puffs
at home 24
Welcome to the House of Coop:
Life’s too short to have a boring home
man in the kitchen 36
Playing Ketchup
vino 38
A Man’s Guide to Valentine’s Day
the a list 40 the simple season 42 A Year of Simple Considering What 2026 Has to Offer
Chocolate Cream Puffs
Title
BY JO MCCLURE
1 cup water
1/2 cup butter (NO MARGARINE)
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup flour
3 tablespoons baking cocoa
4 eggs
2 packages (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped
3 cups coarsely chopped fresh strawberries
In a heavy saucepan, over medium heat, bring water, butter and salt to a boil. Add flour and cocoa and stir until a small smooth ball forms. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time and beat well after each. Beat until smooth and shiny. Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls three inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 400˚ for 30-35 minutes or until set and browned. Remove to wire racks. Cool for 10 minutes. Cut puffs in half and remove soft dough from the inside. Cool 30 minutes.
In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Fold in whipping cream and strawberries. Fill the bottom half of the puffs and replace top. Chill for an hour and serve. Makes 14-16 cream puffs.
WELCOME TO THE HOUSE OF COOP:
Life’s too short to have a boring
BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY ASHLEY COOPER
home
Lifelooks a little different today for Ashley and Jacob Cooper than it did just a few short years ago.
They got married, traded apartment living for a home of their own, and left their “normal jobs” to build a full-time vintage business— now sharing their finds through live online auctions on the Whatnot app
“When we got married, we moved into a 600-square-foot apartment,” says Ashley. That small space is where we discovered our shared love of vintage and where House of Coop was born.”
House of Coop is the moniker for both their home and their business, and they warmly refer to it as their happy place.
“House of Coop stems from our last name, Cooper, and it quickly became a reflection of who we are and the life we were building together,” Ashley explains. “We saved everything we could with the goal of owning our first home.”
The couple says they felt incredibly blessed when, in December 2023, they were able to move into the home that they built.
Over the past few years, Jacob and Ashley have spent countless hours curating pieces that make them smile – with the only real requirements being bright colors, fun shapes, and unique treasures that bring joy to everyday living.
“Both of our moms loved thrifting our entire lives, so it was always part of our world growing up,” Ashley says. “When we started planning to build our first home, we thought it would be fun to thrift all of our decor instead of buying everything new. Once we started sourcing for our home, we realized just how much we were finding. That sparked the thought of “what if we resold some of these pieces?” because we couldn’t possibly keep it all. That idea is what ultimately led Jacob to discover the Whatnot app.
“At the time, we knew we enjoyed reselling, but we never imagined the business would grow the way it has,” Ashley says. “As House of Coop evolved, our home evolved with it. We now have a dedicated room that serves as our WhatNot studio, and our garage functions as our shipping station and inventory holding zone.”
For the Coopers, the house is more than just a place to live. Instead, it is a space that reflects their lifestyle, their creativity and their work.
When asked to describe their style, the Coopers say they gravitate toward a midcentury modern vibe of the 60s and 70s, but overall, their style is very eclectic.
“Color is a huge part of who we are and what we stand for through House of Coop. Our motto has always been that life’s too short to have boring things, and we believe people deserve to live in homes that bring them joy and are a true reflection of who they are and what they love.”
One of their first major finds helped them brand their home and business. Large, red letters spelling H-O-C sit atop a white hutch in their kitchen. They found the vintage metal,
TRANSFORM LIVING SPACES INTO LEGACIES
Explore our refreshed StarMark Cabinetry
Showroom, featuring 15 new door styles and 8 new finishes inspired by nature. Our latest collection offers a blend of refined style and functionality, with trend-forward designs and curated hardware and countertops to bring your dream living space to life.
– THURSDAY 8–5 | FRIDAY 8–3
LED marquee letters at an antique mall. The hutch itself is filled with a small sampling of Ashley’s extensive vintage canister collection, along with Pyrex bowls and assorted salt and pepper shakers.
The white cabinetry in the kitchen is the perfect neutral backdrop for all the color that comes into the kitchen. There is something to catch your eye in every direction…the 1950s yellow Formica table with vintage 70s mushroom placemats, a variety of old Good Housekeeping and Betty Crocker cookbooks, old spice tins and kitchen gadgets, a Dunkin Donuts thermos, a soda fountain straw dispenser and so much more.
Hanging next to the white hutch is a cork board display that Ashley made using old playing cards. You can often find “card packs” at vintage sales, so it’s just a matter of finding card back designs that you like and arranging them however you want.
Another decor feature sure to capture your attention is the miniature box. There are several throughout the house.
Ashley says she has always been fascinated by anything in miniature form.
“There is something special about tiny pieces that take up very little space but bring a lot of joy,” she explains. “I love collecting miniatures that feel nostalgic, remind me of people I love or are unique enough to spark conversation.”
After joining WhatNot, the Coopers discovered printer trays and trinket display cases, which allowed that passion for miniatures to grow even more. The first shelf she arranged is still her favorite and is a literal rainbow of treasures depicting their life as vintage collectors. You’ll find Gumby and Pokey, a mini Coca-Cola bottle, a tiny Monopoly game, the letters HOC (of course!), a gumball machine and….an olive.
Why olives? Ashley grew up with a Lebanese family, so olives were at every big family dinner.
“It became something that was nostalgic to me and brings good memories to mind. When I find an olive to add somewhere in the house, I do a little victory dance in my head,” she laughs.
Jacob has his own miniature shelf as well that is filled with all sorts of sports and fun –
Fall in Love with Savings
Help the children or grandchildren in your life fall in love with saving money. A First PREMIER Kids Club Savings account is designed to teach kids 12 and under the value of saving for the future. They can earn interest1 and learn along with PREMIER Pals Penny and Peso how slow and steady wins the savings race! Scan the code to open online or visit any First PREMIER Bank location 1The
from an old Chipper Jones Atlanta Braves card and a troll with a Braves jersey to a mini Patriots helmet and a football-playing gator. There is also a wood block prominently featuring the letter “A” – for Ashley.
The miniature box that likely sparks the most conversation, however, is the one in the bathroom. Hanging over the shelf is the word “Bath” in a bright lime green, with a clock in the lower circle of the B. And what is on the shelf? A multitude of mini toilets. If you look closely, you’ll also
find mini dentures, a plunger, a toothbrush and toothpaste!
Throughout the home, the Coopers enjoy mixing old with new to create rooms that feel warm, lived in and personal.
They created an accent wall using old record album covers arranged in rows, and next to a modern sectional in the living room stands a vintage yellow cabinet to showcase colorful glass vases, books, an old red rotary dial phone…and more of Ashley’s canisters.
While there is dedicated space in the home for their WhatNot sales, there is also a special “collection room” with shelves arranged in a color-coded system to highlight not just the canister collection but other special pieces they have found on their vintage journey.
“When it comes to my canisters, those are pieces I have very intentionally sought out over time,” Ashley explains. “Because of that, my canisters are rarely for sale, and the majority of what lives on those shelves will stay with me forever.”
There are other pieces in the collection room, however, that she says are not “entirely off limits.” From time to time, pieces do rotate into the Coopers’ shows, especially when they feel they will be just as loved in someone else’s home.
As you scan the shelves in the collection room, you are sure to be taken on a nostalgic journey as you remember the little flowered suitcase you had as a child, when you see a thermos that looks like one you took to school or on family picnics or you find canisters you
remember from Grandma’s kitchen.
The Coopers generously share glimpses of their home on their House of Coop social media to show how they have taken their love of vintage and incorporated it into their dayto-day family life.
“Because our vintage collection only began about three years ago, our home is still very much a work in progress,” says Ashley. “We are constantly adding new pieces as we source, and each room continues to evolve. Starting with a brand new build meant beginning with a blank canvas. Bringing in character and history to a home takes time, and it’s a journey we are loving.”
Follow Ashley and Jacob on Whatnot at houseofcoop
Ozzie
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Shop • Sell • Connect
Download the free Whatnot App and watch or shop Live-Streamed Auction Deals!
Discover unique finds from vintage treasures to clothing to trading cards in live-streamed auctions.
Explore a new way to shop collectibles and rare items through exciting live auctions.
• Follow Angelaell and Bookmark Shows
• If you are in the Sioux Falls area, choose LOCAL PICKUP and pay no shipping fees
I hope you will enjoy the vintage décor items I sell as much as I do.
I love the personal expression that comes from choosing unique items you love. Vintage finds are my favorite! I love nothing more than searching for treasures and then coming home and fussing and putzing — moving things here and there — and finding the best spots for each and every loved object.
The smell of old books, the patina of a well-traveled piece of brass, a beautiful piece of pottery, a unique piece of original art…all amazing to me. Bookmark My Shows and Join the Fun!
Playing KETCHUP
BY JIM MATHIS
I’mgoing to go out on a limb and guess that somewhere in your house is a bottle of ketchup. The brand is probably Heinz, or Hunt’s, but if you’re particularly frugal, it may be a store brand. It’s estimated that 97 percent of U.S. households have a bottle of ketchup on hand. I’m also going to wager that your ketchup is the familiar bright-red tomato ketchup variety.
But the ketchup we know and love for its balance of sugary-sweetness, salt, and
vinegary tartness is a relatively new invention. It first appeared in 1812, but ketchup in other varieties has been around far longer.
The roots of our ketchup can be traced back to Imperial China where kôe-chiap was made from pickled fish or shellfish — a far cry from what we put on our fries today. Some versions of the fermented fish sauce that became ketchup have been traced back as far as 300 B.C.
More recently, like the 1700s, salty sauces from Asia and the South Pacific made their
way along trade routes back to Europe. Like our ketchup today, the sauces were stable enough to make the long voyage back home, but those were often made with tropical fruits.
In the 1800s, ketchups made of oysters, mussels, mushrooms, walnuts, lemons, celery and fruits like plums and peaches, were all the rage. They were the salty, spicy flavor-bomb of the day. Apparently, writer Jane Austen was a huge fan of mushroom ketchup!
Outside of the U.S., other varieties of
I’m going to go out on a limb and guess that somewhere in your house is a bottle of ketchup.
ketchup can still be found on supermarket shelves. In the Philippines, banana ketchup is as common as our tomato variety. The old Turks & Caicos Cabana Grille that was at the corner of 57th and Western made a banana ketchup that was pretty darned good. I miss that place!
And I recently saw a recipe from England that casually suggested a “a few blobs of mushroom ketchup.” That line stopped me in my tracks and sent me down a rabbit hole. What is mushroom ketchup, and where can it find it? Better still, I found a recipe and made a batch. It’s earthy, packed with umami, a little spicy, and a little tangy.
I made my mushroom ketchup with about a pound and a half of a mix of fresh maitake, portabella, and shitake mushrooms, and a couple of ounces of dried morels, shitake, and porcini. I added some garlic, shallots, ground cloves, sherry, sherry vinegar and cayenne. That all went for a ride in the blender then
simmered for an hour or so. The result is about the consistency of good tomato ketchup, but with a whole different world of flavors.
I’ll spare you a photo of my concoction, because a cooked down mixture of mushrooms makes a thick, brown sauce that is not at all appealing to the eye. But it tastes great!
The Heinz tomato ketchup we know today was introduced in 1876 and America’s obsession with ketchup took off! Everything was good for the next 100 years or so and then… Back when I was in high school, the ubiquitous bottle of ketchup found itself embroiled in a political battle. Was it a condiment? Or—as some tried to argue—a vegetable? The younger among you may not recall those faithful days, but it was a big deal back in the turbulent early 1980s.
The battle stemmed from funding for school lunches; how can you cut the budget for school lunches and still claim the meals
are healthy? Well, for one, you change the definitions of food. Pizza, because it contained tomato sauce, was considered a vegetable. Therefore, it was argued that the same amount of tomato ketchup should also be considered a vegetable. And for a few years in the Reagan era, ketchup was classified as a vegetable.
Battles over the cost of school lunches continue today. And here in the Midwest people may have more fondness for ranch dressing than ketchup. But in my mind, that bottle of Heinz is neither a condiment nor a vegetable—to me it’s comfort food.
Do yourself a favor, eat something good today.
When he’s not eating and drinking, Jim runs ADwërks where he spends his time telling stories and working in advertising. If you enjoyed this one, his book Love and Death and Pizza is available now at Zandbroz, Alcove, Full Circle Book Co-op, and Rose & Eugene Presents.
A MAN’S GUIDE TO Valentine’s Day
BY RICCARDO TARABELSI
Here’s a twist. I know that this is etc. for her magazine, but this is what I’d like you to do: after you read this article, leave the magazine open to this page, put it someplace inconspicuous so that your significant other stumbles upon it, and then sit back and enjoy your special Valentine’s Day. Here is my Top Ten List of wine-related things your man can get you this Valentine’s Day. But first, one of my favorite quotes:
“Men are like fine wine. They start off like grapes, and it’s a woman’s job to stomp on them and keep them in the dark until they mature into something you’d want to have dinner with.” Men, play close attention… and good luck!
10. Wine Charms
These little decorative items are a hit with women who like to throw dinner parties. Wine charms are little ornaments that attach to the
stem of the glass as an identifier. That way, after all the women go to the bathroom together and come back to a table full of glasses, they know whose is whose.
9. Wine Diary
Here’s a good one if you know your significant other is a writer or wants to learn more about wine tasting. This diary allows her to take notes on all of the different wines she samples. By taking detailed notes, you can learn how to hone your palate and become more fluent when describing wine.
8. Cookbook
Pick one that focuses on a certain type of cuisine or regional cooking, for example Tuscany or Napa Valley. Make sure that the book includes lots of recipes that offer the option of cooking with wine. That way you can offer her the option of the two of you cooking together and drinking the leftover wine. I cook with wine, sometimes I even add it to the food.
“Men are like fine wine. They start off like grapes, and it’s a woman’s job to stomp on them and keep them in the dark until they mature into something you’d want to have dinner with.”
7. Tickets to a Wine Dinner
I love wine dinners. Wine dinners are the best way to access a wide variety of wines at a good price that includes food and service too. You usually get to sample at least four different wines and a variety of food. Take her out to a wine dinner, instead of just dinner, and show her you care.
6. Riedel Stemware for Two
A must for any wine drinker, regardless of expertise. Buy her a pair of Riedel wine glasses so that every time you drink wine with her, you both are getting the most out of your experience. Riedel is a company that designs and hand-makes crystal glassware meant for specific types of wine. Visit your nearest wine store or visit www.riedel.com.
5. Cooking and Wine Pairing Night
That’s right, fellas. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, do some research, and prepare a meal. No experience, no problem. You don’t have to be a professional to know how to boil water, drop some pasta, and make your
own tomato sauce (or you can consult with Jim Mathis’ food article in this magazine.) She’ll melt when she sees you in an apron, and she will be really impressed when you pour the appropriate wine with your homemade meal. For ideas and help with your meal, talk to a chef. There are lots of great chefs in Sioux Falls, and they are always willing to help a guy in need.
4. Room Makeover
Room-what?! You heard me. Women love makeovers, especially if it’s one that will enhance the aesthetics of a room in the house. Offer to do a Wine Theme room for her. Convert a guest room, den, four-seasons room, or even a small part of a living room into a room full of wine paintings or prints, wine themed wallpaper or trim, a wine lamp, anything made out of corks (wreaths, coasters, etc.,) burgundy-colored candles, and if you’re going all-out, they even make chairs that are upholstered with fabric that has wine bottles and labels on it. Men like wine cellars, women like wine rooms. There’s a reason why she watches HGTV while you’re watching ESPN. I’m sure you can think of another four letters to insert here, but it’s Valentine’s - explore your feminine side.
3. Trip to Wine Country
I recommend visiting Napa Valley and experiencing the awesome tasting rooms that are at your disposal, not to mention my personal favorite (and South Dakota-owned) Jessup Cellars. If you’re cutting back on expenses this year, then you can always stream the movie Sideways and take a trip to a local South Dakota winery. There are more around here than you might think and they are worth the trip.
2. Case of Wine
There is nothing more impressive to your loved one than knowing what she likes. You not only know what brand of jeans she likes, but you also know the cut, style, and fit. You not only know what flavor of ice cream she likes, but you also know what toppings she likes and what kind of cone to get. You not only know what genre of music she likes, but you also know her favorite bands. This one is about knowing what she likes and going above and beyond just buying her a bottle of Riesling. Find out her favorite winemaker, winery, label, or whatever her most favorite is, and then buy her a case of it. It’s that simple. Impress her by knowing her.
1. Moscato d’Asti
When all else fails, when you can’t think of something romantic, or you don’t know exactly what she likes, go with a Moscato d’Asti. There are too many different names of producers of Moscato to list them all, but if you go to your preferred wine store, they will be more than happy to help you out. Then you take that bottle to the one you want to be with, and you uncork for her. And as you are pouring this sweet, sparkling Italian wine, you say, “I love you, let me count the ways…”
Carpe Vino this Valentine’s Day!
Riccardo will be counting the ways with his wife, Marybeth, while they count their blessings with their three sons, Dante, Berent, and Jaxon (fiancée Taylor.) Riccardo and Marybeth own R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Brix Wine Bar, Maribella Ristorante, Trio Jazz Club, and Vespa Catering, all in Downtown Sioux Falls. Contact Riccardo at riccardo@rwinebar,com.
Something Special
At Annie’s, we have something special for all the sweethearts in your life. Annie’s Treasured Home & Vintage. 219 N. Main Street, Salem, SD. (605) 421-4442.
Get Organized
Thoughtfully crafted for everyday ease, this peg system adapts to your needs while keeping plates, platters, and cookware secure and scratch-free. Find your accessories to help you organize at Dakota Kitchen and Bath, 4101 N Hainje Avenue, Sioux Falls.
Create a Keepsake
A ceramic birthday plate can become a cherished family tradition. Designed to be used year after year, this keepsake is perfect for celebrating a child’s birthday with meaning. It’s a sweet and sentimental way to mark time—and makes a perfect gift. Make yours at Color Me Mine. 3709 W. 41st St. (605) 362-6055.
Top-Quality Dancewear
Discover top-quality dancewear for every dancers needs. From ballet to hiphop, shop a wide range of dance apparel for your next performance. The Dance Line. 2115 S. Minnesota Ave. (605) 335-8242.
Sioux Falls Local Best
Thank you for once again naming Julie Prairie Photography a Sioux Falls Local Best! We are so grateful for the many years and the countless clients. We’d love to hear from you if you are looking for a high school senior, family or commercial photographer. Visit the website at julieprairie.com or drop an email at jp@julieprairie.com.
A New Level of Sophistication
We’re excited to introduce StarMark Cabinetry’s Shoshone textured reeded door, which brings a new level of sophistication to any living space. This door style masterfully balances modern texture with timeless elegance, creating a visually stunning focal point that elevates the entire room aesthetic.
NOW OPEN!
Revel Kitchen & Cocktails is a fun and new familyfriendly now open in Luverne, MN. You’ll enjoy Smash Burgers, HandBreaded Chicken, Bracco Fish Tacos, Steak, Pasta, Salads, Cocktails, and more!
107 E. Main St., Luverne, MN. (507) 220-5600. reveldining.com
Quality and Affordable
Elevate your projects effortlessly with this versatile all-in-one paint solution. Perfect for painting kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets and furniture. Quality and affordable. Available at Junk in the Trunk. 5303 W. 41st St. (605) 338-5510.
Love is Sweet!
Love is sweet, and we have the treats! Mary’s Mountain Cookies offers many delicious options for your Valentine’s Day gifts! Our gift boxes include our ‘Simply Sweet’ box of 2 gourmet cookies, ‘Love Notes’ box of 6 gourmet cookies, or our ‘Ooh La Love’ box, which includes 6 gourmet cookies, 6 dipped strawberries, and 4 brownie bonbons. All of our cookies are made with quality ingredients and baked with love! Call us to place an order or stop by either of our locations! Downtown 605-275-0060 - South Cliff 605-275-0062 - www. siouxfallscookies.com.
Love to Shop for Vintage Decor?
Do it from the comfort of your own home with Whatnot. Follow Angelaell on the Whatnot app for amazing vintage live stream decor auctions. Fun atmosphere and amazing finds! Vintage books, brass, glassware, miniatures, linens, oddities and more! And, if you are local, choose the Local Pickup option and don’t pay a cent for shipping!
A YEAR OF SIMPLE Considering What 2026 Has to Offer
BY BOBBI LYNN GAUKEL
Welcome to February. Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the year so far is that we made it through January—and especially here in the Midwest, that alone feels like an accomplishment. The hustle of the holidays is behind us, and the promise of warmer weather still feels impossibly far away. This in-between season can be heavy, quiet, and a little uninspiring.
That’s what led me to think more deeply about how simple might not just be a seasonal goal, but something that can reflect every month of 2026. What would it look like to carry simplicity with us all year long, even when life feels busy, demanding, or overwhelming? Let’s dig in.
One concept I’ve been hearing about lately is the Swedish word lagom, which
roughly translates to “just enough”—in moderation, in balance, or suitable. For many of us in America, this way of living feels quite foreign. Our busy lives don’t often allow for “just enough,” whether we’re school-age, retirement-age, or somewhere in between. Our calendars are full. Our minds are fuller. So what does it take to find small pockets of simplicity—moments that help
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counterbalance the noise and bring us back to center, no matter the season we’re in? That question is how The Simple Season was born, and it’s the challenge I’m taking on for myself this year.
As we begin, here’s a short, personal list of practices I’m using to balance the busyness of my own life.
Journaling
First, a confession: I’m a visual artist, so writing things down does not come naturally to me—even though I write a monthly column. What has surprised me is how taking daily stock of my mental and emotional state brings a clarity that feels almost immediate. Some days I don’t want to do it. Some days I have nothing to say. Other days, journaling is genuinely the high point of my day.
If you’re looking for inspiration to start journaling yourself, I highly recommend The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad. Built from real people, real experiences, and thoughtful prompts, it offers gentle guidance without pressure—and that feels very lagom to me.
Playing
This word can mean many things, but here
I’m thinking about trying something new without rules, expectations, or a finish line. Most of us prefer to excel—whether we’re beginners or seasoned pros. While goals can be motivating, growth as a human often requires experimentation, curiosity, and a willingness to be bad at something for a while. Recently, I was gifted an old sewing machine by a sweet woman who passed away last spring. Something about sitting down with her machine made me want to relearn how to sew. I’m not a complete beginner, but it’s been decades since I’ve sewn something “just because.” I already know perfectionism won’t serve me here— and that’s part of the point. I’m starting anyway. I’m going to see what happens. I’m hopeful it won’t be a complete disaster, but I’ll keep you posted.
For inspiration, I’ve been following YouTuber Sydney Graham, a creative soul whose process feels approachable, imperfect, and deeply human.
Offroading (sort of)
The name might be a stretch, so let’s just call it what it is: stepping outdoors. There’s a reason Scandinavian countries consistently
rank high in life balance—they embrace every season by spending time in nature, regardless of the weather.
For those of us who resist walking in winter—or sweltering summer heat—I can only say: try it and see. You might be surprised to discover that stepping outside, even briefly, can interrupt stress and quiet the mental noise of the day.
Personally, I love walking while listening to podcasts, but when I’m in quieter, more rural areas, I prefer to hear only the sounds of nature. I notice my thoughts become less chaotic. I become more aware of small details—the crunch of snow underfoot, or the frenetic rustling of birds foraging for lunch.
My only advice for winter explorers: dress in layers and keep your goal realistic. Even ten minutes a day is better than zero, and once you take the first step, the hardest part is already behind you.
There are countless other ways to redefine “just enough” in 2026, and we’ll explore many of them together. I hope you’ll join me this year as we practice living more intentionally, gently, and hopefully.
Happy February, friends.
friends& family
Easy Valentine Crafts
Submit Your Pet’s Photo
Easy Valentine Crafts
Kids Will Love
BY JESS WEISCHEDEL
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to break out the craft supplies and let kids get creative. These crafts are simple enough for little hands, flexible enough for creativity, and fun enough to keep kids engaged.
Heart Stamping with Paper Rolls
What you’ll need:
An empty toilet paper or paper towel roll, washable craft paint, and plain paper or cardstock. How to make it:
Gently press one side of the cardboard roll inward to form the rounded top of a heart. Pinch the opposite side slightly to create a point. Once shaped, dip the edge into paint and stamp it onto paper. Kids can repeat the process to fill the page with colorful hearts. Turn the finished artwork into a homemade Valentine or frame it as seasonal decor.
Heart Puppy Valentine
What you’ll need:
Construction paper (white plus two other colors), scissors, glue, and a black marker.
How to make it:
Cut two large hearts from different colors of paper. One heart will be the puppy’s face. Cut the second heart in half to create floppy ears. From another color, cut a smaller heart for the nose, and use white paper to make two tiny hearts for eyes. Turn the large heart upside down so the point becomes the chin, then glue the ears to the top corners. Add the eyes and nose, and let your child draw on extra details like freckles, a tongue, or spots. These are adorable on the fridge or taped into a Valentine card!
Balloon Elephant Valentine Card
What you’ll need:
One deflated balloon, cardstock (white, the balloon color, and one accent color), scissors, glue stick, and tape. How to make it: Fold a sheet of cardstock in half to create a greeting card. Use rolled tape to attach the deflated balloon to the front—this becomes the elephant’s nose. Cut two hearts from matching cardstock to create ears and glue them on each side of the balloon. Add small white circles for eyes and draw in details if you’d like. When it’s time to gift the card, the balloon can be removed and inflated for extra fun!
Animals
We are available for adoption at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society unless noted.
BARRY
Evie and Charley, best friends of the Rowe family
Luna, best friend of Hailey
Augie, best friend of Kristen Pederson
JAMIE
KAYDEN
Each month we will choose and feature cute pets. Your pet could be next, so send in a picture today.
Email your photo – just one per pet – to etc.mag@sio.midco.net. Please make sure they are high-resolution photos (the highest setting on your camera). Include in email: pet’s name and owner’s name. Pet owners must own the rights to all submitted photos.
Stogie & Sadie, best friends of Robert & Nancy Walker
Mae, best friend of the McElroy family
Eva, best friend of Debra
ONE SIMPLE THING COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING.
Do What You Love to End ALZ™ lets you turn something you love into a fundraising event to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Start a fundraiser and invite members of your community to join. By doing one simple thing, you can change everything. Visit alz.org/dowhatyoulove to get started.
